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My response to the films of MNS have so far been a study in mixed emotions.
The Sixth Sense - Great performances, a nice chilly atmosphere, but, I was able to guess the big secret from the 30 second TV spot. (Of course, I wasn't SURE I knew until about five minutes into the movie, and then, I sighed to myself and thought, "damn, I was right.") I'd watch it again, thanks to the excellent acting, especially from Toni Colette, and some really nice scary moments.
Unbreakable - Actually, this is the one I've enjoyed most on first viewing, though its deliberate pace may prevent me from re-watching very often. But, really, this may be my favorite of his films thus far.
Signs - I would need to write a really long post to describe how much I was out of sympathy with Signs. I didn't think it was a bad film, I just disagree with its worldview. It felt preachy, and the way in which all the story elements came together at the end seemed to me ridiculously contrived, not life or faith affirming. Still, I liked the cinematography, I had no problem with Mel's performance, and I thought the birthday party video sequence was great.
The Village - There was so much discussion of the secret behind this one that there was no way I could avoid knowing about it, short of taking the steps iSm mentioned above. I thought the whole thing incredibly silly, especially in hindsight, and yet, I can't say I didn't like it. I found myself caught up in a goofy sort of way, and I really liked Bryce Dallas Howard. I would watch it again, but I would have a hard time defending it.
So, I guess that means I like M. Night's style, I'm unimpressed with the gimmicky twists, and Night and I would probably have very different views on life, the universe and everything. I'll probably go see Lady In The Water in a week or two when the seats are cheap and there's no one else around.
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